Goebel Hummel Figurine: Birthday Cake (Hum 338)

This is a Goebel M.I. Hummel porcelain figurine titled 'Birthday Cake,' model number 338. The piece features two young girls: one standing on the left holding a large pink-frosted cake on a white scalloped plate, and the other on the right holding a yellow flower, appearing to ponder the dessert. The figurine is crafted from glazed earthenware (fine porcelain) and exhibits the classic muted, earthy color palette characteristic of Hummel pieces, including shades of blue, terracotta, and brown. The construction shows fine hand-painted details, particularly in the girls' facial expressions—with downcast eyes and delicate rosy cheeks—and the textured rendering of their dresses and wavy hair. The blonde-haired girl on the right features a prominent orange-red bow. The base is an integrated round, cream-colored pedestal. This specific design was originally modeled by master sculptor Gerhard Skrobek in 1956 and has been produced under various Goebel trademarks. The craftsmanship is evident in the subtle shading of the clothing folds and the 'red line' detailing on the white peasant sleeves. Condition appears excellent with no visible chips, cracks, or crazing, though a signature 'bee' mark or Goebel stamp on the underside would be necessary to confirm the exact manufacturing period (e.g., TMK-4 through TMK-8).